The perils of recreational marijuana use: relationships with mental health among emergency department patients

Abstract Introduction: Marijuana is a commonly used drug in the United States. Many states have legalized the recreational use of marijuana. The effects of marijuana on mental health are unknown. Methods: In this prospective survey study, eligible participants included ED patients age 18 and older, who had ever used recreational marijuana. A survey instrument was developed, piloted, and revised. Data collected included reasons for marijuana use, marijuana’s perceived effectiveness, and history of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal